A Comprehensive Review of Throat Cancer: Clinical Aspects and Herbal Management Approaches

Abstract

Throat cancer refers to a group of cancers that develop in the pharynx (throat) or larynx (voice box), and includes several subtypes such as nasopharyngeal, oropharyngeal, hypopharyngeal, and laryngeal cancer. While it remains less common than other forms of cancer, its impact on speech, swallowing, and breathing makes it particularly life-altering. The leading causes of throat cancer include long-term tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), especially in younger, non-smoking individuals. Environmental exposure to certain chemicals and a diet low in fruits and vegetables may also contribute to risk. Treatment options vary depending on the cancer’s type, location, and stage, but often involve a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. In recent years, advancements such as targeted therapy and immunotherapy have shown promise, particularly for recurrent or advanced cases. Early detection plays a critical role in improving survival rates and preserving quality of life, yet many patients are diagnosed at a late stage. There are few herbal management such as green tea , turmeric etc. This review explores the major types of throat cancer, their known risk factors, and the current landscape of treatment strategies, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of this challenging but increasingly treatable disease.

Introduction

I. Overview

Throat cancer refers to the abnormal growth of cells in the throat region, particularly in the pharynx and larynx. It commonly affects areas like the tonsils, tongue base, soft palate, and voice box (larynx). It is most often caused by tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and HPV infection. Symptoms are often mistaken for less serious conditions, which can delay diagnosis and treatment.

II. Anatomy and Types

The throat plays a role in both respiration and digestion, connecting the mouth/nose to the esophagus and lungs.

Types of Throat Cancer:

1. Pharyngeal Cancer:

   • Nasopharynx: Behind the nasal cavity.

   • Oropharynx: Includes tonsils, base of the tongue.

   • Hypopharynx: Lowest part of the pharynx; often diagnosed late with poor prognosis.

2. Laryngeal Cancer (voice box):

   • Glottic: Vocal cords (most common).

   • Supraglottic: Upper larynx (epiglottis).

   • Subglottic: Below the vocal cords; rare.

III. Causes and Risk Factors

• Major causes:

  • Smoking and alcohol use (especially combined)

  • HPV infection (notably HPV-16)

  • Chemical exposure (e.g., asbestos, wood dust)

  • Poor diet, GERD, family history

• Mechanism:

  • Alcohol and tobacco contain carcinogens that damage DNA.

  • HPV causes genetic mutations in throat cells.

IV. Symptoms

Common signs include:

• Persistent sore throat or cough

• Hoarseness or voice change

• Difficulty swallowing

• Ear pain

• Lump in neck or throat

• Weight loss

• White or red patches in throat

These symptoms often resemble benign conditions, making early diagnosis difficult.

V. Diagnosis

• TNM Staging: Assesses tumor size, lymph node involvement, and metastasis.

• Imaging: CT, MRI, PET-CT used for staging and recurrence detection.

• Biopsy: Confirms diagnosis via tissue sampling.

• Liquid biopsy (non-invasive, emerging method) detects cancer markers in saliva or blood.

VI. Pathophysiology

Throat cancer usually arises from squamous cells, often due to chronic irritation or viral DNA integration (HPV), leading to uncontrolled cell growth.

VII. Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the stage, location, HPV status, and patient health.

1. Surgery:

• Ranges from tumor removal to full laryngectomy.

• TORS (Transoral Robotic Surgery) is a less invasive option, especially effective for early oropharyngeal cancers.

2. Radiation Therapy:

• External beam radiation or brachytherapy.

• Techniques include:

  • IMRT / VMAT

  • Proton therapy

  • MR LINAC

  • SBRT

3. Chemotherapy:

• Often used with radiation (chemoradiation) or pre/post-surgery.

• Docetaxel + cisplatin + fluorouracil is common for advanced cases.

4. Targeted Drug Therapy:

• Focuses on molecular pathways (e.g., cetuximab targeting EGFR).

• Often used with other treatments.

5. Immunotherapy:

• Boosts the immune system to fight cancer.

• Drugs like pembrolizumab and nivolumab are FDA-approved for advanced/recurrent throat cancers, especially HPV-positive types.

VIII. Prognosis and Research Trends

• Prognosis is better with early detection, especially for HPV-related cancers.

• Ongoing research includes:

  • Reduced-intensity treatments for HPV-positive patients

  • Therapeutic vaccines, immunotherapies, and advanced imaging

  • Strategies to preserve speech and swallowing post-treatment

Conclusion

Throat cancer is a serious disease that affects the voice box and the uppDNAer part of the throat, which are important for speaking, swallowing, and breathing. Detecting the cancer early is very important because it allows treatment to work more effectively, increases the chances of recovery, and can prevent the cancer from spreading to other parts of the body. People who smoke, drink alcohol heavily, or have certain viral infections are at higher risk of developing throat cancer. Simple steps can help reduce the risk, such as avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol use, eating healthy foods, and visiting a doctor regularly for check-ups. Being aware of symptoms like persistent sore throat, difficulty swallowing, or changes in voice can also help in finding the disease early. By following these precautions and seeking medication .

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Jibin Joy Zachariah, Roshani Anil Chakrapani , Shruti Raju Washimkar, Rubina Sheikh, Gayatri Chinchulkar. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.